Data protection compliance for CCTV cameras at canal

APPROVAL for CCTV cameras at crime hotspots on the Grand Canal was sought by South Dublin County Council at the recent JPC Policing Meeting, to ensure data protection compliance.

The Grand Canal CCTV system from the 12th Lock to Killeen Road, is pivotal for security on the canal and includes vandal proof cameras.

A significant operation was implemented two years ago following violent thefts of commuters’ bikes and e-scooters, with drug dealing at certain parts of the canal.

The canal operation, from Lucan to Inchicore, features work by gardai, local authorities, Waterways Ireland, and more recently developers including Cairn Homes, who are heavily involved in the Clonburris SDZ (Strategic Development Zone).

Data Protection Commission guidelines state that footage or images containing identifiable individuals captured by CCTV systems are personal data for the purposes of data protection law.

The Commission says best practice for data controllers is to set out their position in the form of a CCTV Data Protection Policy.

The council’s Economic Development Department sought approval regarding the CCTV scheme from the 12th Lock to Killeen Road, the only cameras within South Dublin County’s catchment area.

Laura Leonard, Senior Executive Officer with the Dept, said the CCTV system has been in place for 10 years.

Ms Leonard said the need for approval was accelerated by increasing anti-social behaviour “along sections of the canal”, and the suggestion that South Dublin County Council didn’t have legal authority arising from the Data Protection Commission.

“Approval will give us security, it feeds images to Clondalkin Garda Station,” she said.

A letter by the Chief Supt DMR West Finbarr Murphy, supported the request, noting the CCTV “will benefit the area greatly and assist garda in their investigations”.

Chief Supt Murphy said the area is known for anti-social behaviour and drug deals, and that Clondalkin Supt Anthony Twomey has increased the number of patrols and drug unit operations.

The CCTV system is manned on a 24-hour basis by Manguard Plus Ltd, on behalf of Grange Castle Facilities Management Company.

Payment of security expenses is recouped by the company from the council on an annual basis. The agreement is that Manguard act as the Data Processor and the council act as the Data Controller.